Yvonne Colgrove, PT, PhD

Professional Background With an education in anatomy and cell biology, Yvonne Colgrove, PhD, has been active in a variety of scientific endeavors and is interested in improving function for individuals who suffer from chronic disease. Colgrove has worked on improving function in patients with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and chronic low back pain. In addition to work in her primary laboratory, the IMPACT Research Laboratory, she previously has worked on a number of projects in the Diabetes Research Laboratory. Currently, Colgrove serves as the director of clinical education and is teaching ethics courses in the DPT program.

Academic Background Colgrove began her education at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan., where she earned a bachelor's degree in biology. Subsequently, she transitioned to the field of physical therapy by enrolling at Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Mo., earning an additional bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, Colgrove earned her doctorate in anatomy and cell biology from the University of Kansas. In 2004, she joined the faculty in the KU Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science.

Research Focus Colgrove's research impacts a broad spectrum; by working in clinical, educational and scientific settings, she is working to broaden the horizons of physical therapy and rehabilitation. In the field of research, Colgrove is examining how yoga affects physical function, physiology and quality of life in those who suffer from chronic diseases or conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and chronic low back pain. She has also investigated the effectiveness of intensive cognitive training in brain function in people with Alzheimer's disease.

Additionally, Colgrove is investigating the standard practice in screening for depression. From an educational standpoint, Colgrove has explored different methods of promoting the intraprofessional education of students in physical therapy and physical therapy assistants, and she exploring the use of social media and technology in clinical education.

Selected Past and Current Grants

Yvonne Colgrove (PI) The Effects of Yoga on Chronic Low Back Pain Purpose: The determine the impact of yoga on primarily on pain and disability and secondarily on physical function, quality of life and sleep Interprofessional Clinical Research Grant

Yvonne Colgrove (PI) The Therapeutic Effects of Yoga in Individuals With Parkinson's Disease Purpose: To determine the impact of yoga on physical function, physiological parameters and psychological effects in individuals with Parkinson's disease. School of Health Professions Grant